Packing list for a mountain vacation with kids
I decided to interrupt my Venice posts with a lovely little packing list for a mountain vacation.
The reason for that?
Well, let me tell you why.
Storytime
We went on a weekend trip to Tatry – Strbske Pleso, to be exact.
Staying in a nice hotel, lovely room with a kitchen, breakfast. Nice and easy trails nearby, a couple of minutes’ walk to the lake.
The weather was supposed to be easy to pack for – all 2,5 days were supposed to be around 16C, overcast, chances of rain. Not pleasant, but easy to pack for.
So, since I was too lazy to print my essentials packing list or the self-catering vacation packing list (had to connect the printer to the computer, the horror!), I decided to wing it. I pack often, this is gonna be easy peasy! No need to write anything down!
And well, guess what?
I forgot so. many. things.
Passports for me and Emma to check in at the hotel? Forgotten. Luckily, kids almost never need an ID to check in and I had my residence permit, which was enough. (Have to renew my ID card, ugh).
Kitchen stuff such as oil, paper towels, rice, margarine, milk, coffee… well, luckily, we ended up not needing it. But still!
And the main thing? I forgot to pack socks and panties for Emma. Do you know how much socks cost in a touristy hiking place? Well, unfortunately, I know now. They are expensive. 7,99 euro a pair. Yes, they are hiking socks, but still!
So, that’s why I’m presenting you with my mountain vacation packing list.
This is a basic packing list for half-day or full-day hikes, not for trekking tours.
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Mountain packing list: travel essentials
| Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| Passport / ID | Required for check-in |
| Wallet, cards, cash | Always have some cash |
| Reservations | Hotel, tours, transport |
| Chargers | Phone, camera, powerbank |
| National park passes | If required |
| Itinerary and maps | Useful for planning and navigation |
| Keys | House, car |
These are the essentials you should always take with you. If you’re planning harder hikes, bring a paper map of the area and possibly a compass. Have a loose itinerary of places and trails you want to explore.
Toiletries for a mountain trip
| Item |
|---|
| Sunscreen |
| Bug spray |
| Shampoo / conditioner & shower gel |
| Hand cream |
| Lip balm |
| Toothpaste & toothbrush |
| Hairbrush & hair ties |
| Deodorant |
| Makeup |
| Period products |
| Laundry detergent |
If you’re going to the mountains, sunscreen is a must.
And, if you’re travelling in the warmer months, take bug sprays with you.
I usually take at least some shampoo and a shower gel or soap with me, as the ones in the hotels are very rarely nice. Usually, my hair feels so dry and matted after washing it with the hotel shampoo that I cannot for the life of me brush it normally!
The air can feel a bit drier, too, so a lip balm and hand cream can come in, khm, handy. For the hand cream, I personally like the Loccitane travel sized ones called “delicious hands”.
On the same note, don’t forget to put a hairbrush and some hair ties on your packing list for a mountain vacation if your hair is longer. Nothing worse than having to fight with your hair in the mountains!
I love my little tangle teezer. I’ve been using it for years now, and it’s still working perfectly. Plus, it’s tiny and has a lid to cover the bristles!
I think toothpaste, toothbrush, and deodorant are kind of self-explanatory. You can look into some smaller, travel-sized ones so that they don’t take up a lot of space.
Remember, if you pack a deodorant spray bottle, it might get confiscated at the airport. So better pack a stick one.
It’s a good idea to have some emergency period products with you.
Clothing for a mountain vacation
| Layers | Clothing | Accessories |
|---|---|---|
| Waterproof & windproof jacket (soft-shell) | Hiking pants | Hiking socks |
| Middle layer (fleece jacket) | Long sleeve shirts / t-shirts | Scarf |
| Thermal underwear | Hiking shorts (for warm weather) | Gloves |
| Hiking boots (sturdy) | Hat |
Layers
Hiking pants, waterproof and windproof jacket (soft-shell), middle layer (fleece jacket), long sleeve shirts, t-shirts, thermal underwear, hiking shorts
Generally, the weather in the mountains is very unstable and hard to predict, so I recommend having layers on your mountain vacation packing list. That way, you can be prepared for anything.
Pack some sports t-shirts that are breathable and light, a middle layer such as a fleece jacket or a long sleeve t-shirt, and a wind- and waterproof jacket. I personally like soft-shell jackets, as they seem to be more breathable and good at regulating temperatures.
A good material for t-shirts is synthetics, and if you have one that is moisture-wicking or drifit, that’s even better. It’s because they help sweat evaporate, thus leaving you nice and dry.
If you’re going to the mountains in colder weather, pack a warmer jacket.
When you buy thermal underwear, make sure to check what material it is. Merino wool will be the warmest one. I have synthetic ones, and they are nice as well,
Accessories
Hiking socks, scarf, gloves, hat
You’re more likely to need a scarf, gloves, and a hat in colder weather. But!
Hiking socks are essential, as they help prevent blisters. Merino wool or blends work best. In warmer weather, go for thinner ones.
Hiking boots
When hiking, it’s important to have proper shoes that will protect your feet.
If you’re not planning to go on any crazy strenuous hikes, generally, even normal running shoes with a good grip will do.
If you’re hiking in tropical locations, even sandals with a proper sole could do.
BUT!
If you’re able to afford them, it’s better to have proper hiking shoes with a sturdy sole, ankle support, and rubber toe cups if you’re doing rocky trails.
Hiking gear for a mountain trip
| Item |
|---|
| Hiking backpack |
| Hiking poles |
| Rain cover for backpack |
| Microfiber towel |
| Water bottle (preferably with filter) |
The hiking backpack should be comfortable and big enough. Straps on the chest or waist can help, especially on longer hikes.
Unless you’re in quite a good shape or doing easy trails, hiking poles are definitely a good idea. They just help a lot with balance and saving your strength.
Related: Things to pack for your vacation in Patagonia
Many backpacks have a rain cover built in, but if not, it’s good to have one. Otherwise, your gear can get wet.
The microfiber towel is definitely optional, but it’s a nice thing to have on your mountain trip packing list.
But a bottle of water is most definitely not optional. Always, always have enough water with you when hiking. If you’re not sure that you can carry enough, it’s a good idea to invest in a water bottle that has a filter.
Other essentials for a mountain trip
| Item |
|---|
| Trash bag |
| First aid kit |
| Paper napkins |
| Sunglasses |
| Camera |
| Travel insurance |
“Leave nothing but footprints” is a very good quote for when you visit mountains. So it’s important that you take all your trash with you, even if it’s only an apple core. That’s why – make sure to take a trash bag with you when packing for the mountains. It can be a simple ziplock bag as well, no need to take anything fancy.
A first aid kit doesn’t need to contain anything crazy, especially if you’re not going on overnight or very deserted trails out in the wilderness. Just pack some medicine against pain, bandaids, and maybe a disinfectant or sterilizing spray.
Since the weather in the mountains is so unstable, even if it’s raining, it’s a good idea to have sunglasses with you. You don’t know at which moment the sun will come out and blind you, haha.
And a camera, definitely bring a camera. At least a completely charged phone (with a portable battery) or a GoPro. Whichever mountains you go to, you’ll want to take pictures, I’m sure. As the saying continues, “take only pictures”.
As the last thing, though, hoping for the best is good, but always have travel insurance when you travel. And make sure that it covers hiking, as many insurances actually have an exception.
What to pack for a mountain vacation if you’re travelling with kids
| Item |
|---|
| Carrier |
| Kids’ travel essentials |
| Sneakers or hiking shoes |
| Same essentials as for adults |
When hiking with kids, you mostly pack the same things as for yourself, just in smaller sizes.
That means, hiking clothes and shoes, although Emma hiked in jeggings and sneakers. She has a soft-shell jacket and a rain jacket, but underneath it, she had a normal t-shirt. There are actually hiking shoes for kids which you should definitely consider for protecting those little feet and legs.
Of course, you need the kid’s travel essentials, which, in addition to clothes and hygiene items, are things like toys, a favourite sleep toy, and maybe a potty.
The only extra thing I packed was our Ergo 360 carrier, as I knew that Emma will not be able to hike the whole trail. You can get away with any carrier, really.
If the hike is longer or harder, you can get a special kid’s hiking carrier that is more comfortable for everyone. Or it’s usually possible to rent it as well in the mountain towns.
FAQ about packing for a mountain vacation
What should you pack for a mountain vacation?
Focus on layers, proper hiking shoes, basic toiletries, and essential gear like a backpack and water bottle.
How do you dress for a mountain trip?
Use layers – a base layer, middle layer (fleece), and a waterproof jacket. Weather in the mountains changes quickly.
Do you need special hiking shoes?
Not always. For easy trails, running shoes with good grip can be enough. For harder or rocky hikes, proper hiking boots are recommended.
What kind of backpack do you need for hiking?
A comfortable backpack that fits well and has enough space for water, snacks, and extra layers is enough for most hikes.
Are hiking poles necessary?
They are optional, but helpful on longer or steeper hikes as they improve balance and reduce strain.
What should you pack for mountain weather?
Bring layers, a waterproof jacket, and accessories like a hat and gloves, even in warmer months.
How much water should you bring hiking?
Always bring enough water for the entire hike. If needed, use a bottle with a filter to refill from streams.
What are the most important accessories for hiking?
Hiking socks, sunglasses, and weather protection like a hat or gloves are the most useful.
Do you need travel insurance for a mountain trip?
Yes. Make sure it covers hiking, as not all policies include it.
What to pack for hiking with kids?
The same essentials as for adults, plus a carrier, snacks, and comfort items like toys.
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Thanks for the ideas! Next month, my husband and I are taking our 7 children, ages 10mo –16 years, from Louisiana, US to the Grand Canyon, then to San Diego and Los Angeles, then up to Utah and Colorado before heading back to Louisiana. Lots of sights to see along the way. And lots of different climates and clothing needs!
oh wow! that sounds like an amazing trip! Good luck! And if you’re ok with it, I’d be happy to learn how it went!
I’ll come back and let you know! 😀